President Obama claps after awarding Clinton Romesha, 31, a former Army staff sergeant, the Medal of Honor in a ceremony at the White House on Feb. 11. Romesha received the award for his courageous actions during an enemy attack on Combat Outpost Keating, in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, on Oct. 3, 2009. Jack Gruber USAT

Clinton Romesha listens as President Obama speaks before awarding him the Medal of Honor. Eight soldiers died in the battle and 22 were wounded, including Romesha. Jack Gruber, USA TODAY

Colin Romesha, the recipient's son, walks around the lectern before President Obama awards his father the Medal of Honor. Jack Gruber, USA TODAY

A young Clint Romesha celebrates his 5th birthday in Lake City, Calif., in August 1986. Family photo

Members of Red Platoon, 3-61 Cavalry Regiment, including Staff Sgt. Clint Romesha (front row, second from right), pose for a picture just after arriving at Combat Outpost Keating, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan, in 2009. U.S. Army

Clint Romesha with 1-year-old son Colin during a camping trip at Lake Metigoshe, N.D., in July 2012. Family photo

Members of Red Platoon, 61st Cavalry Regiment, patrol the village of Saw, Afghanistan, in 2009. Family photo